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Officers in New Zealand had initially launched a missing person inquiry for the University of Lincoln graduate after her parents became concerned she had not replied to birthday wishes sent on December 2.

After arriving in the country from Peru on November 20, she had been in regular contact with her family, police officers revealed.

“We would like to thank the people of New Zealand for their outpouring of love, numerous messages, tributes and compassion.

“Grace was not born here and only managed to stay a few weeks, but you have taken her to your hearts and in some small way she will forever be a Kiwi.”

New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, also gave an emotional apology to Ms Millane’s family, saying: “Your daughter should have been safe here, and she wasn’t, and I’m sorry for that.

“I cannot imagine the grief of her family and what they would be experiencing and feeling right now.”

Mourners outside Brentwood Cathedral (Image: Chris Cook)

"My thoughts and prayers are with her father David, who is in the country, her mother Gillian, who cannot be here, and her wider family, friends and loved ones.

"From the Kiwis I have spoken to, there is this overwhelming sense of hurt and shame that this has happened in our country, a place that prides itself on our hospitality, on our manaakitanga (a Maori term meaning kindness and generosity) especially to those who are visiting our shores."

Appearing to become choked with emotion, the PM added: "So on behalf of New Zealand, I want to apologise to Grace's family.

"Your daughter should have been safe here, and she wasn't, and I'm sorry for that."

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